Goalkeepers
John Filan
Number one for three years now and that is unlikely to change. Although he is now 35 years old, the former Blackburn stopper has already proved that he is upto the challenge of the Premeirship and has improve with age.
Another good solid season under his belt last year, both the fans and boss Paul Jewell have good faith that the Aussie will prove a hit this year in the Premeirship.
Rating: 4/5.
Gary Walsh
Manager Paul Jewell has made no secret that he needs to add a goalkeeper to the squad and rightly so. Although Walsh has been a very good ‘keeper throughout his career, age is starting the get the better of him and he cannot be expected to be an able understudy to Filan at the age of 37. He will spend this year concentrating on his coaching role at the club. The addition of Mike Pollitt is essential.
Rating: 1/5.
Defence
Right Back
Nicky Eaden
First choice right back for the Latics last season after re-claiming his spot off David Wright. Now 33 years of age, the former Barnsley full-back could well struggle to keep up at Premiership level.
Many fans were un-impressed with Eaden’s form for the Latics last season, but he is very solid defensively if a little poor when crossing.
The step up may prove too much for him, especially against the more skilful wingers such as Ronaldo and Robben.
Rating: 2/5.
David Wright
Signed from Crewe before the start of last season and came to the JJB with great expectations but has not fulfilled them. He is only 25 years old and could well prove himself in the Premiership after Dario Gradi tipped him to be a success.
Distinctly lacking in aggression, height and strength, Wright makes up for this with a good reading of the game.
Rating: 2/5.
Left Back
Leighton Baines
Just 20 years of age, and England under 21 international and wanted by both Manchester United and Everton. I think that opening sentence gives a good idea of how Baines should cope with the step up.
The Latics have already turned down £5 million from the Toffess for the full back who is expected to be more than at home in the top flight.
Despite a distinct lack of the size, Baines has the ability to be a success given the right attitude.
Rating: 4/5.
Steve McMillan
A good spell at the end of the season last year earned the former Motherwell full back a new deal at the JJB. This could prove to be a wise decision by boss Paul Jewell should McMillan managed to stay injury free.
There are no-doubts over his ability and he has what it takes to make it in the top flight.
Rating: 4/5.
Centre Back
Matt Jackson
Captain last season, Jackson is now 33 and is still in good shape. Has previous Premiership experience with Everton and Norwich which could prove invaluable to the Latics.
Perhaps lacking in pace for the top flight, but has a superb reading of the game that is needed. Many expected him to leave for Luton Town but Jackson has chosen to stay and try himself in the Premiership.
Rating: 3/5.
Ian Breckin
Breckin was superb at the heart of the Latics’ defence last season and played a vital role in getting promotion. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time when it comes to last ditch tackles.
Lacking in pace but has a good reading of the game and has the ability to be a decent, consistent Premiership defender.
Rating: 3/5.
Emerson Thome
Has had his fair share of injuries since signing from Bolton but has shown ability on the odd occasion.
No doubt has the ability to be a Premeirship defener but the Brazilian centre back often over plays and gives the ball away, he is also fairly error-prone and inconsistent.
On his day he is a match for any centre-forward.
Rating 2.5/5.
Conclusion
Three centre backs is not going to be enough in the Premiership. Jose Mourinho at Chelsea says he likes to have a squad size of 24, and that includes around 8 defenders. At the moment the Latics have five who are potentially capable of the step up.
Left back is a strong position at the moment with both Baines and McMillan capable. Whilst at centre back, both Jackson and Breckin are competent.
One of two quality centre backs would be more than welcome to help strengthen the spine of the side.
While right back is a real worry at the moment with neither Wright nor Eaden having shown enough for the step up.
A top draw right back is vital at the moment and should be a priority on Jewell’s shopping list.
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What do you think? Is Nicky Eaden up to the Premiership? Will Matt Jackson leave for Luton? Will Baines have Wright-Phillips in his pocket?
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